League title-winning left-back scoops two awards ahead of first season with Kaizer Chiefs - 'I thank the team management for giving me the opportunity'

Kaizer Chiefs' DStv Diski Challenge (DDC) defender Kabelo Nkgwesa was the big winner as he scooped the Most Improved Player of the Season and Player of the Season awards during the reserve team's award ceremony.

The team's awards fete was conducted at the FNB Stadium on Friday, and Nkgwesa, who is expected to be integrated into the senior team, went home with two awards.

Meanwhile, the Goalkeeper of the Season award went to Takalani Mazhamba, while Players’ Player of the Season was scooped by Pheko Phago, and Naledi Hlongwane was Chiefs' top scorer after netting 14 goals.

The Chiefs award ceremony for the Diski players was also graced by veterans who included Siphiwe Tshabalala, Reneilwe 'Yeye' Letsholonyane, Mandla Masango, and Willard Katsande.

"I came here last season, and it was difficult because I was still trying to get used to it. But this one has been much better," Nkgwesa said, as quoted by Isolezwe.

"I thank the coaches for always encouraging me and my teammates for helping me even when I didn't have money to travel. I also thank the team management for giving me the opportunity."

The left-back is understood to have already signed a new contract with the Premier Soccer League side.

Apart from Nkgwesa, Thulani Mabaso and Takalani Mazhamba are also on the verge of joining the senior team, given that they are expected to be part of the pre-season with Nasreddine Nabi's charges.

Amakhosi won the DDC title with a few matches to spare and also became the first-ever side to earn 70 points in the competition.

Imaad Hendricks, Ozoemena, Neo Bohloko, Naledi Hlongwane, Manqoba Ozoemena, and Aden McCarthy were also outstanding in the Chiefs' successful campaign and could be considered for promotion.

He is a promising star and might end up being one of the dependable defenders for the Glamour Boys.

When he joins the senior side, pundits and fans alike would like to see whether he will cope with the pressure that comes with being a player of that level.